After six years, Rodgers & Hamersteins’ “The Sound of Music” is back on Philippine shores! The Monster witnessed the beautiful production and joined the Von Trapp family in their journey last March 21, 2023 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati.

Set against the backdrop of pre-World War II Austria, the musical follows Maria, a postulant dispatched to take a job as governess to Captain Von Trapp’s seven troublesome children. She teaches them to sing and the Captain to love, but when the Nazis invade Austria, the whole family is forced to flee to safety. 

Those who grew up watching the 1965 Oscar-winning film starring the iconic Julie Andrews might think there’s nothing new to expect from the live staging (even if the movie was actually based on the stage play), but they will be surprised. While the storyline remains the same, the musical offers something new. Aside from a bigger role (and two song numbers!) for Baroness Elsa, “The Sound of Music” 's political undertones are much more highlighted. Songs not in the film like ‘How Will Love Survive’ and ‘No Way To Stop It’ not only treat our ears with new melodies but also underscore how politics influences personal relationships, like that of the Captain and the Baroness’.

The actors also bring new energy to their characters, making them much more dynamic and relatable to the modern audience. Jill Christine-Wiley’s Maria was endearing and effervescent; her voice took us to new heights. She had amazing chemistry with Trevor Martin’s Captain Von Trapp. Cassi Mikat also made her Mother Abbess debut the night we attended, and she was nothing short of phenomenal. And last but definitely not the least, the seven Von Trapp children were oh so charming!

Of course, we can’t miss mentioning the country’s homegrown talents that took the stage. Karylle Tatlonghari rocked the blonde hair and showed off her acting and singing skills as Baroness Elsa Von Schrader, while our very own Markki Stroem shined and gave the role of the young messenger Rolf justice. This isn’t just Pinoy pride speaking – our local thespians were so amazing that one would think they were actually part of the international touring cast!

We must also recognize the production design for transporting us to another world as we watched the Von Trapps’ story come to life. The set, the lighting, and costumes all made the show an immersive experience for the audience.

“The Sound of Music” is a timeless classic made timely in this Manila leg of the tour, and we are so honored to have been given the opportunity to see it come alive on stage. Huge thanks to Broadway International Group, Broadway Asia, AMA Group of Companies, and GMG Productions for having us!